10 Best Indoor Tanning Lotion recommended by experts

If you are looking for the best indoor tanning lotion that will guarantee you a glowing tan, this article is for you.

Indoor tanning is a safe and easy option for getting a tanned skin quickly. It saves you from the trouble of going outside to spend hours under the sun. There are many varieties of indoor tanning lotions out there. You’ll get to know about those types of indoor tanning lotions in this article. I’m also going to answer some important and related questions to indoor tanning that you might have in your mind.

Besides, you will love this list of the best indoor tanning lotions because of their quick action. The results are visible within 60 minutes to several hours during which your desired beautiful, bronze skin tones are fully developed. You’ll start seeing the full results after 8 hours. So, follow along with me.

Tanning is caused by dihydroxyacetone, a natural ingredient derived from sugar beet (1).DHA is absorbed by the surface layer of your skin. The color cannot be washed right away. But as the dead skin cells get removed by time, so does the color, too. It fades away and usually disappears after 5-7 days.

For a naturally darker tan, it is good to choose lighter and medium-dark tones of indoor tanning lotions. Remember that you should not overdo the tone and application. It is easy to cross the line going from a “natural” to an “artificial” look that is usually unpleasant. Therefore, you should always apply the product in thin layers and gradually. Now, let’s learn more about the types of indoor tanning lotions.

Types of indoor tanning lotions

You should know what type of tanning lotion will be perfect for you, this section will help you choose the best product for your skin type and according to your wishes.

There are several different types of indoor tanning lotion products.

1. Accelerating Tanning Lotions

These indoor tanning lotions are designed to amplify the self-tanning and tanning bed results (2). This is a very good choice if you are a beginner. Common ingredients of these products include some quality natural ingredients, such as shea butter, coconut oil, or Aloe Vera. These products will moisturize and protect your skin. At the same time, you will enjoy consistent and natural-like results.

2. Bronzer Tanning Lotions

There are two types of bronzers, natural and DHA bronzers. Natural bronzers are based on natural, mostly plant-origin oils and substances that trigger and increase melanin production in your body. Over time, your skin will naturally become tanned because of the melanin. The advantage of Bronzer tanning lotions is the fact that they usually contain none or some chemicals and they are, instead, mostly based on natural products.

Unfortunately, the disadvantage of these products is the need to re-apply the bronzer as often as every 4 days to maintain consistent results.

On the other hand, the DHA bronzers are dying your skin (1). DHA stands for dihydroxyacetone and it is the active ingredient of this type of bronzers (2). The results of the DHA bronzers are also not long-lasting, as the surface layer of dead cells quickly gets removed and so does the dye.

3. Tingle tanning lotions

Tingle lotions contain strong active ingredients that work on the principle of bringing more oxygen to the cells. As a result, skin appears to be darker than usual. These products ensure long-lasting results.

10 Best Indoor Tanning Lotion Reviews

In this review, we will show you the top 10 best indoor tanning lotions you can use daily. There are many different products available in the market, but these reviews will help you choose the very best product that suits your needs. Let’s get started!

If you have naturally fair, pale skin and are looking for marvelously tanned skin, Beauty by Earth is exactly what you need. This product will not destroy your complexion with orange tones, dark spots, or uneven tanning. You will tan gradually and evenly.

Besides, it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals. Its formula is based on organic ingredients. This lotion contains Japanese green tea, coconut oil, leaf juice, Aloe Vera, Vanilla, fruit extracts, and organic shea butter. It is the perfect combination for soothing and nurturing your skin. This is our editorial the best indoor tanning lotion in the market.

If you are looking for the best indoor tanning lotion for sensitive skin then this product is the best match for you.

Pros

This product contains natural and organic products.

It moisturizes and nurtures your skin.

There is no risk of discoloration, orange tones, and dark spots.

Even results on your face, neck, legs, arms, stomach, and back.

Cons

You must avoid water for 6-8 hours after applying the product

You must reapply the lotion every 4 days to maintain the color.

If self-tanner based on natural ingredients is your preference, we highly recommend this product by Beauty by Earth. You will enjoy even tanning and smoothness enabled by coconut oil, shea butter, and other nurturing, natural ingredients.

The strongest assets of this self-bronzer include fast drying and versatility. You can use it for all skin types. However, it is most suitable for fair to medium light skin. Also, this fast-drying lotion is paraben-free and contains natural ingredients. You will notice that your tanned skin is softer, smoother, and looks youthful and shiny.

Simply put, if you want even tanning and flawless look, this is a great product for you! This sunless tanning lotion, as its name implies, does not require exposure to the sun rays. According to the manufacturer, there are no side effects. It is safe for teenagers as well. This is a reputable manufacturer and popular brand from California, dating back to 1983.

Finally, the easy application system of this self-tanning lotion will save your time and effort. Let’s take a look at the full list of its pros and cons.

Pros

Color continues to develop even after 8 hours.

Even tanning.

No need for exposure to sun rays.

Easy to apply.

Does not leave greasy traces.

Cons

You must avoid water for 5-8 hours after the application of the lotion.

It contains artificial fragrances.

Finally, we can say that this product by Sun laboratories is the best option for those who want a quick and even tanning result. The lotion has a very good structure and texture. Therefore, the application and tanning process itself is effortless.

This amazing product by Skinerals gained popularity due to consistent results and very natural results. You will love the charming bronze color without ugly orange tones.

In addition, this product contains some valuable natural ingredients, such as precious plant oils. It contains minerals instead of chemicals. It is gentle towards your skin and does not cause any kind of damage.

You should apply the lotion with a hand cloth for the best results. The product is suitable for all skin types, including fair skin.

Pros

Very consistent results.

It leads to soft and nurtured skin.

Ideal for all skin types.

It contains plant oils.

It doesn’t contain artificial fragrances.

Cons

The tanning mitt required for perfect results is sold separately.

Finally, we can say that this sunless bronzer by Skinerals is an excellent choice. It contains fruit extracts, plant oils, and essential oils. Besides, it is good for all skin types, so you can even share it with your friends! The best thing is: this product does not contain any harmful artificial fragrances. You will feel only a mild, pleasant scent coming from the plant and essential oils.

This product is completely different from the majority of indoor tanning lotions. Golden Star Beauty dermatologists and cosmetologists developed a sunless tanning serum formula that acts as an anti-aging product! It contains invaluable hyaluronic acid, vitamin B, and organic rosehip oil. This combination removes fine wrinkles and stops the deepening of existing wrinkles.

You will get smooth, youthful, natural-like tanned skin that glows with irresistible shine and energy. This product doesn’t clog your pores and does not cause acne. It improves your skin elasticity.

It is suitable for both men and women. It is good for all skin types, including fair skin. You will notice that this extraordinary product enables perfect fade. There is no discoloration, nor orange tones.

Pros

It has an anti-aging effect.

It does not clog your pores and does not cause acne.

There are no orange tones and it fades perfectly even.

The product contains hyaluronic acid, rosehip oil, and vitamin B.

Good for all skin types.

Cons

You have to reapply it several days later to maintain the same color tone.

In conclusion, this is one of the best indoor tanning lotions. Moreover, it is definitely the best sunless bronzer with anti-aging effect. Its rosehip oil and vitamin B effects will work magic for your skin. Hyaluronic acid corrects fine wrinkles. This is why this exceptional product is often chosen by women in their late 30s and 40s.

This indoor tanning lotion by Tan Physics will get you an adorable, natural-like tanned color tone. You will look gorgeous after only one application of the lotion, as its active ingredients nourish and hydrate your skin.

Also, you will love the fact that this self-tanning lotion is a 3-in-1 product. It contains active anti-aging and moisturizing ingredients. Therefore, buying this product will save your time, effort, and money. If you want to correct your fine lines and shallow wrinkles, this is definitely a go-to product for you.

All you need to do is thoroughly wash and clean your face, apply the Tan Physics lotion, and enjoy the results!

Pros

It contains Aloe Vera and Argan oil.

This is a 3-in-1 product: self-tanner, anti-ager, and moisturizer.

It is suitable for all skin types.

You will get a radiant complexion and even tanning results.

Cons

You must avoid contact with water for 8 hours after the application.

In conclusion, I liked this product due to its versatility. Many people wonder if they can apply moisturizer immediately after applying their self-tanning lotion and the answer is almost always “No”. With this product, you get the moisturizer and the anti-ager as a 3-in-1, practical solution.

If you prefer olive-tone and bronze-tone skin, look no more. This product will guarantee you the most gorgeous olive-tone tanning result. You will get a natural-like, attractive tan with an irresistible bronze glow.

Long-lasting results are guaranteed with special ingredients, such as DMI, DHA, and Erythrulose. These ingredients are reinforced with organic, 100% natural ingredients.

The product does not contain artificial fragrances. It will not stain your clothes, nor leave a greasy trace. You don’t have to worry about orange tones and discoloration. You are guaranteed to get positive results. You will get even complexion.

Pros

Final results are obtained for only 4 hours.

Long-lasting results.

Paraben-free product.

Suitable for all skin types.

Cons

You have to avoid water for several hours.

Finally, I can say that this product is among the very best indoor tanning lotions for your consideration. You will get lovely olive-tone, natural-like tan with a bronze glow. The results last longer than with other similar lotions. It is paraben-free and suitable for all types of skin.

Here’s another amazing indoor tanning lotion by Fake Bake. If you want instant results, this is the best product for you. For example, you are invited to a party that starts only 4 hours later. You want to have that irresistible, sexy tan and glow, but it is too late now. No, it’s not late! You can get an amazing bronze tan with Fake Bake Darker Formula Instant Self-Tanning Lotion.

This magical indoor tanning lotion uses 3 active ingredients: DHA, DMI, and Erythrulose. The principle behind this particular product is in activating and reinforcing your skin’s natural pigments. So, if you have fair skin, you still have some pigments, but they are not very active. This product will wake them up and amplify their activity.

You will love your amazing bronze tan only several hours after the first application. If you want a deeper, darker tone, look no more.

Pros

Non-sticky formula.

Fast-drying product.

Good for all skin types.

Perfect for darker tones.

Instant results.

Cons

You need to have the airbrush/spray machine to apply this product.

Finally, you will love this indoor tanning lotion as it will save you each time you need to obtain perfect tanning results in a short time. Its active ingredients are gentle towards your skin, but guarantee extra dark results in only 4 hours.

This organic and natural ingredients-based sunless tanning spray comes with a pump spray and a tanning mitt. It does not contain parabens, mineral oils, formaldehyde, alcohol, PABA, fillers, nor artificial fragrances. It is based on olive, sunflower, and Argan oil. These oils will not only guarantee the perfect, bronze tan but protect your skin and ensure long-lasting results.

It is easy to apply. You can use it on your vacation or at home. The spray pump is very convenient. It does not leave stains, marks, nor greasy traces.

Moreover, you can choose nuance suitable for your natural skin tone. You can also control the intensity of the tanner by applying it from one to four days in a row for the light, medium, dark, or extra dark result.

Pros

Color develops after 6-8 hours.

The product is free of all harmful substances.

Olive, sunflower, and argan oils will smoothen your skin.

There is no risk of orange tones.

No discoloration risks.

Even fading is guaranteed.

Cons

You have to repeat the process after 4 days for color consistency.

Finally, we can say that this product, suitable for very fair skin types as well, is a high-quality product with precious argan oil. Olive and sunflower oil will make your skin look wonderful and attractive. It is easy to apply and maintain the result.

This luxurious indoor tanning lotion by Ed Hardy is suitable for all skin types, including fair and sensitive skin. It contains coconut milk and oil. It intensively smoothens, nurtures, and hydrates your skin.

You will enjoy the results after using this quality lotion as they are not limited to skin tanning. This lotion’s peculiarity is the fact that it fights against cellulite. You will notice that your skin is firmer immediately after the first application of the lotion.

This product also stimulates melanin production. In combination with the quad tyrosine blend and the melano-bronze formula, your skin will become darker and the results will be long-lasting.

Pros

Long-lasting results.

2-in-1 product: self-tanner and anti-cellulite lotion.

Tattoo-protection formula.

Rich and thick lotion structure.

Good for all skin types.

Results formed after only 4 hours.

Cons

It contains two types of silicone – Cyclopentasiloxane and Dimethicone, which is not suitable for people with allergies on silicone.

In conclusion, we can say that this indoor tanning lotion is excellent for self-tanning and as a tanning bed lotion. It contains skin smoothening ingredients, such as coconut milk and oil. It has a very short period of action after which you will enjoy your attractive, bronze tan.

This luxurious indoor tanning lotion by Designer Skin will provide excellent, natural-like, and attractive bronze skin tan results with a smooth feel on your skin. It is very efficient and effective. You will enjoy the results very soon after the first application of the product.

You will love the amazing citrus smell. This product is used by professionals in beauty salons around the world.

Pros

You will enjoy the fast results.

Long-lasting, attractive, bronze skin tan.

Mesmerizing citrus smell will make you enjoy even more.

Your skin will be smooth and silky.

Cons

The product is more expensive than other self-tanning lotions presented in this review.

Finally, we can say that this product definitely deserves a place on our top ten self-tanning skin lotions review list, as it is one of the most luxurious products in this category. It is the favorite product of many celebrities enjoying attractive, consistent bronze complexion. You will love quick, consistent, long-lasting results and silky skin.

Benefits of Indoor Tanning

There are many benefits to indoor tanning. More and more people opt for this solution. Celebrities choose indoor tanning exclusively. Why? Let’s find out!

1. Reduced skin cancer risk

With ozone damages and holes, the natural sun rays have become even more dangerous for our skin. Experts say that indoor tanning significantly reduces skin cancer risks due to a shorter period of harmful UV-rays exposure (2).

2. Vitamin D booster

Vitamin D is essential for the proper and healthy functioning of your organism. What happens with people who live in areas without enough sunny days in a year? What about people who live in areas with polar winters, i.e. periods of several months of darkness? This is why indoor tanning can be extremely beneficial for you.

3. Reduced scar visibility

Another thing I love about indoor tanning is the magical ability to reduce the visibility of our stretch-marks and scars. Only a few sessions are enough to make these enemies of attractive look almost invisible.

Tanning Bed Tips for Beginners

Here are some useful tanning bed tips that truly make the difference:

Benefit from applying quality tanning lotion.

Thoroughly exfoliate your skin before your tanning bed session.

Take a shower before the session.

Never stay in the tanning bed longer than the professionals suggest. Your first session should be as short as six minutes.

Always protect your eyes with goggles. Your eyes can experience serious damage if you don’t protect them during the tanning bed session.

Never repeat the tanning session within 48 hours. Your skin can suffer damage if you repeat the tanning bed treatment within two days from the first session. Experts say that you should never use tanning beds more than twice a week.

Benefit from tan extenders that will minimize your need for re-visiting the tanning bed.

Don’t exaggerate with the tanning bed sessions, especially if you are a beginner.

Use the best indoor tanning lotions with low chemical content.

Remember to moisturize your skin every day.

Side effects of indoor tanning

The tanning color of your skin results from dead or damaged skin cells. But you don’t need to worry because your skin cells will naturally grow back when your tan is over. When dihydroxyacetone(DHA) from the tanning lotion mixes with amino acids in your skin, it creates a browning reaction.

If you use too much tanning lotion, some DHA can slip through your skin and enter your bloodstream. And that is a serious matter of health concern. So use the lotion carefully and minimally, don’t overuse in the greed of a darker tan.

Some people might have an allergic reaction to DHA, which can cause problems.

How to apply tanning lotion?

You can use indoor tanning lotions independently from tanning bed treatments and sessions. You can also use it for a tanning bed treatment that will amplify the results. Moreover, the role of indoor tanning lotions for tanning bed sessions is also protective. The best Indoor tanning lotions will create a thin film on your skin that protects it from the negative impacts of the artificial tanning bed rays (3). Now, let’s learn how to apply tanning lotion.

First, remember that you should wait at least one day after shaving if you want to use an indoor tanning lotion. Otherwise, you might experience not so pleasant orange dots on the shaved areas.

Then you should gently, yet thoroughly exfoliate your skin. Pay attention to all areas that you will later apply the lotion on. Focus on your knees, elbows, feet, and hands. These are zones prone to damage, thickened, and cracked skin. You should generously moisturize these zones.

Then, apply a thin and even layer of the lotion on your body (on all zones you want to treat). I recommend using a tanning mitt. If you want to protect your hands or use gloves, rinse them thoroughly immediately after using the lotion.

Go to the tanning bed treatment 30 to 60 minutes after applying the tanning lotion. Also, avoid tanning lotions that cause burning sensations or temperature feeling, as you will not be comfortable in the tanning bed.

Can you use indoor tanning lotions outside?

Yes, you can use some of the tanning lotions that aren’t specified as “for indoor use only”. But I don’t recommend using indoor tanning lotions outside because you will be facing some problems. One of the problems is that Indoor tanning lotions can’t protect you from the sun.

Another problem is the tanning lotions aren’t water-resistant. So it will wash off if you dive into the water or get too sweaty. The lotion will also make your skin look greasy, which will be unpleasant for you and for those looking at you. I recommend that you just use the regular sunscreen or the moisturizer that is made of outdoor uses.

How often should you tan?

I don’t see you needing a tan more than once per month. It’s not about how often you “should” tan, it’s about how often you want a tan. Do not expose yourself to indoor tanning lotions more than once every 48 hours.

Experts say that even those of you who are used to indoor tanning should not expose themselves to these treatments more than 2 times a week.

You can use tan extenders to prolong the lifetime of your tanned skin tone. This will make the tanning bed visits less often.

Final words

I hope that this article has enriched your knowledge of indoor tanning, risks, and benefits. I also hope that you’ll get your perfect tanning glow by following the guidelines.

Enjoy your tanned skin safely and responsibly with the best indoor tanning lotion!

Let me know if you have any further questions regarding tanning or any personal care concerns. I’ll also love to hear if you want such informative articles about a topic you want to know about.